Leeds Kirkgate market’s success is to be celebrated but there’s no room for complacency
It was King Charles I that granted Leeds its Royal Charter 400 years ago. And for the past two centuries Leeds Kirkgate market has stood as a jewel in the city’s crown.
Nestled in the city centre, the market is steeped in history. It is after all the birthplace of retail behemoth Marks & Spencer.
One of the main characteristics of Kirkgate Market has been the spirit of independence that has flourished there for centuries. For some businesses it has been a launchpad to bigger things, for others it’s been the pinnacle of their ambitions. Whichever it is, these traders are the arteries of the market and the public who support them, the lifeblood.
The market is not just about the wares on offer but rather the people behind the stalls. Kirkgate is just as important for its social element as it is for customers to get what they need.
It is home to just over 200 independent businesses today and Leeds City Council says 88 per cent of units are in use. All things considered, that is good going and the market has headed in the right direction in recent years, But the council must not become complacent.
Plans for a new food hall meters away from the market have led to angst amongst some traders of oversaturation. In an ever evolving world it is important that the market keeps apace with change. But the council must do so in a way that is sympathetic to existing traders.
More importantly it is incumbent upon us, the public, to ensure that markets such as Kirkgate thrive. That is the surest way of keeping the independent spirit of markets alive.